When it comes to replacing an entire dental arch that’s missing teeth, dentures are a reliable solution. Many people enjoy the benefits for years as they are made with high-quality materials. But how can you ensure that your prosthetic lasts for a decade or longer? It’s important to care for them properly and break bad habits. Here is what can shorten their lifespan.
1.) Not Cleaning Your Dentures
Although they are not your natural teeth, it’s still important to keep them clean. Letting harmful bacteria build up can increase your risk of gum disease. This condition can make wearing dentures feel more uncomfortable and have an unstable fit.
Be sure to brush them with a soft-bristle toothbrush or a prosthetic-specific brush. You can use clear, gentle soap or another cleaning solution that’s approved by your dentist. Using another type of brush or regular toothpaste can cause damage, making you need a replacement much sooner.
2.) Sleeping with the Prosthetic
It’s important to take your dentures out when you are sleeping. Keeping them in can restrict the circulation in your gums and cause some sores. To keep your mouth healthy, take them out and place them in a soaking solution or regular water every night. Building this good habit will help keep them from drying out and cracking.
3.) Having Too Much Crunchy, Sticky, or Sugary Foods
Your diet is important to keep your overall and oral health strong. Many foods can increase your chances of breaking your dentures or cause them to build up plaque quickly. Crunchy foods can cause some damage when not eaten carefully or get stuck between the prosthetic and your gums, leading to some discomfort. Sticky items can cause some unwanted movement, while sugary snacks can increase your risk of plaque buildup.
Try your best to eliminate these foods from your diet, or chop them up into more manageable pieces and clean your dentures after eating.
4.) Skipping Your Dental Visits
A great way to ensure that your prosthetics have a long lifespan is by having consistent checkups with your dentist. They will be able to monitor your oral health and take care of any issues like gum disease while ensuring that your dentures are pristine. If they find any chips or cracks, then they can repair them right away. Breaking these bad habits can help you have dentures that last over a decade.
About the Author
Dr. Shabnam Tehrani earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She believes in giving you a smile that you feel confident in by replacing your missing teeth with dentures. Dr. Tehrani is excited to work with you to help you maintain them, so they will last you for years to come. If you want to learn more about how you can care for your new teeth, schedule an appointment or call us at (813) 751-3044.